How to Find the Wi-Fi Password for Connecting a Printer to Your Phone: 5 Proven Methods

Connecting a printer to a phone via Wi-Fi seems like a simple task until you're faced with the need to enter the device's wireless network password. Many users get confused when the system prompts printer network key, as it's rarely explicitly stated. Unlike a home router, where the password is usually written on the box or a sticker, this process is different for printers.

The problem is complicated by the fact that manufacturers - Canon, HP, Epson, Brother — use different approaches to authentication. Some models generate a password automatically when you first turn it on, while others require you to set it manually through the control panel. Some models (e.g., HP Smart Tank or Canon PIXMA G-series) generally the technology is applied WPS or Wi-Fi Direct, where a password is not required. In this article, we'll cover all possible scenarios—from the standard to the more exotic.

1. Password on the printer sticker: where to look and what the symbols mean

The most obvious way is to inspect the printer body. Most modern models (especially budget ones) Epson EcoTank or Brother DCP) have a factory sticker with network data. It can be located:

• 📍 On the back panel - under the paper compartment cover or next to the USB/Ethernet ports.
• 📍 Bottom of the body — often with printers Canon MG or HP Envy.
• 📍 Inside the cartridge compartment - applicable to some models Epson.
• 📍 On the box - if the printer is new and the packaging is intact.

Look for the following markings on the sticker: SSID (printer network name), Password/Passphrase/Network Key (password), WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK (encryption type). The password is usually a combination of 8-12 characters (numbers and upper/lower case letters). If the sticker is worn off or missing, proceed to the next methods.

2. Password in the printer menu: how to find it through the screen or buttons

If your printer has a display (even a monochrome one), you can view the network settings in its menu. The instructions vary by model:

• 🖨️ HP (OfficeJet, Envy, Smart Tank): go to Settings → Wireless → Network Configuration ReportThere will be a line here WPA-PSK Key - this is the password.
• 🖨️ Canon (PIXMA, MAXIFY): go to Menu → LAN Settings → Wireless Network Details. Look for a field Security key.
• 🖨️ Epson (EcoTank, WorkForce): Settings → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi settings → View settingsThe password can be called Pre-Shared Key.
• 🖨️ Brother (DCP, MFC): Menu → Network → WLAN → View settings. Field Network key.

For printers without screen (For example, HP DeskJet 2700 or Canon Selphy) the password can be printed:

1. Hold the button Wi-Fi (or Information) 5-10 seconds until the indicator flashes.
2. The printer will print a sheet of network data, which will contain a line Password or Network Key.

Make sure the printer is connected to Wi-Fi|Restart the printer (turn it off/on)|Check if the settings have been reset to factory defaults|Refer to the instructions for your specific model-->

3. Router settings password: how to find it through the web interface

If your printer is connected to your home Wi-Fi, its password may be the same as your main network password. However, some models (e.g., HP OfficeJet Pro or Epson WorkForce Pro) create own access point with a unique key. To find it:

1. Open the router's web interface by entering into your browser 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 (the address is indicated on the router sticker).
2. Log in (login and password are often used admin/admin or admin/password).
3. Go to the section Wireless network (or Wi-Fi, Wireless).
4. Find the list of connected devices (DHCP Clients, Connected Devices).
5. Find your printer in the list (by model name) and look at its IP address.
6. Enter this IP in your browser - the printer's web interface will open, where you can find the password in the network settings.

Some routers (for example, TP-Link or ASUS) there is a function WPSIf the printer supports it, you can connect without a password:

1. Click the button WPS on the router (usually it is labeled or flashes blue).
2. Press the button within 2 minutes Wi-Fi or WPS on the printer.
3. The connection will be established automatically.

4. Resetting the printer: when is it necessary?

If you've tried all the methods and still can't find the password, it's possible the printer's network settings have become corrupted. In this case, this will help: factory resetPlease note that after this procedure you will have to set up the printer again (including connecting to Wi-Fi).

Reset instructions for popular brands:

• 🔄 HP: hold the button Cancel (or Wireless + Cancel) 10-15 seconds until all indicators start flashing.
• 🔄 Canon: hold down Stop/Reset for 5 seconds (for models with screen: Settings → Installation → Reset settings).
• 🔄 Epson: simultaneously hold Stop + Turning on 3 seconds.
• 🔄 Brother: click Menu → All Settings → Initialization → Network.

After resetting, the printer will create a new network with factory password, which can be found on the sticker (see Section 1). If there is no sticker, the password will be standard for the model (for example, for HP OfficeJet 200 this is often 12345678, and for Canon PIXMA MG3640 — canon123).

What should I do if the printer does not create a network after a reset?

If your printer is not broadcasting Wi-Fi after a reset, check:

1. Is Wi-Fi mode turned on (some models have a physical switch).

2. Is the error indicator on (for example, flashing orange - this means there is a problem with the cartridge or paper).

3. Connect the printer to the router via an Ethernet cable - the wireless module may be damaged.

5. Wi-Fi Direct and alternative connection methods

Many modern printers support the technology Wi-Fi Direct, which allows you to connect to them directly, without a router. In this case, a password is either not required or is generated automatically. Here's how it works:

• 📱 Turn on Wi-Fi on your phone and find the network with the printer model name (for example, DIRECT-xx-HP OfficeJet 250).
• 🔑 The connection password can be:
• 🔢 Standard (for example, 12345678 For HP or canon123 For Canon).
• 📄 Indicated on the printed sheet (see. Section 2).
• 🔄 Automatically generated (see it in the printer menu: Settings → Wi-Fi Direct → Password).
• 📲 Once connected, use the brand's app (HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson iPrint) for printing.

If Wi-Fi Direct isn't working, try these alternative methods:

• 🔌 USB-OTG: Connect the printer to your phone via an adapter (works with most Canon And Epson).
• 🌐 Cloud printing: upload the document to Google Drive and print using the printer application.
• 📡 Bluetooth: some models (eg HP Sprocket) support printing via Bluetooth.

6. Password for NFC printers and special applications

Some printers (eg Canon PIXMA TS or Epson EcoTank ET) support NFC Or they have proprietary apps that simplify connection. In this case, a password may not be required at all:

• 📱 NFC: Place your phone near the printer's label (usually located on the front panel). The connection will be established automatically.
• 🤖 Brand applications:
  • HP Smart (For HP): scans the QR code on the printer and connects without a password.
  • Canon PRINT: prompts you to select a printer from the list and enter the PIN code from the device screen.
  • Epson iPrint: supports connection via Wi-Fi Direct with automatic key retrieval.

If the printer is new, it may come with QR code For quick setup, scan it with your phone's camera or the printer's app—this will allow you to connect to the printer's network without manually entering a password.

⚠️ Attention: When connecting via NFC or QR code, make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on on your phone. Some apps (e.g. HP Smart) require location access to search for printers.

7. If nothing helps: contact support

In rare cases, the password may be lost or reset to a non-standard value (for example, after a firmware update). If all the above methods fail:

1. Check it out warranty card — sometimes the password is indicated there.
2. Find user manual for your model on the brand's official website (enter in a search engine, for example, Canon PIXMA MG3640 manual PDF).
3. Contact us support service:
   • HP: support.hp.com or phone 8-800-200-82-82.
   • Canon: ru.canon or 8-800-200-88-20.
   • Epson: epson.ru or 8-800-250-37-76.
   • Brother: brother.ru or 8-800-333-0-333.

When contacting support, please be prepared to provide: printer model, serial number (on the sticker on the back), and describe the steps you've already taken. In some cases, specialists can reset the printer remotely or send instructions for your specific firmware.

⚠️ Attention: If the printer was purchased second-hand, the previous owner may have changed the password. In this case, the only solution is a full reset (see Section 4).

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Printer Passwords

Is it possible to connect a printer to a phone without a password?

Yes, if the printer supports it Wi-Fi Direct or NFCIn this case, the connection occurs without entering a password (or using the PIN code that is displayed on the printer screen). Also, some models (for example, HP Envy) allow you to connect via Bluetooth.

Why isn't my printer visible in the Wi-Fi list on my phone?

There are several reasons:

1. The printer is not turned on or is in sleep mode.
2. The wireless module is disabled (check the button) Wi-Fi on the body).
3. The printer is connected to another network (for example, to a router, and is not broadcasting its access point).
4. Wi-Fi is disabled on the phone or airplane mode is enabled.

Try restarting your printer and phone, and make sure they are within 10 meters of each other.

How can I find out the password if the printer is connected to the office network?

In office networks, printer passwords are usually managed by the IT department. Contact your system administrator—they will either provide you with a key or configure server-based printing. Trying to connect to corporate printers yourself is not recommended, as it could violate company security regulations.

What should I do if my printer requires a password, but it is not on the sticker?

The printer was probably previously configured and the password was changed. Try this:

1. Print the network configuration report (see Section 2).
2. Reset the printer to factory settings (see Section 4).
3. Connect via WPS (if the router supports this function).

If nothing helps, contact the manufacturer's support.

Is it possible to change the printer's Wi-Fi password?

Yes, this can be done through the printer menu or web interface (if the model supports this feature). For example:

• For HP: Settings → Wireless → Change network settings.
• For Canon: Menu → LAN Settings → Change Security Key.

The new password must be at least 8 characters long and include uppercase and lowercase letters and numbers.